Pink Ribbon 5K runs Saturday

The Pink Ribbon 5K brings out people of all ages to raise money to help local people who are or have fought cancer.(Floyd Ingram/file photo)

HOUSTON – On your mark, get set, help your friends and neighbors.

The semi-annual Pink Ribbon 5K will be held Saturday in conjunction with the Spring Flywheel Festival and offers exercise enthusiasts an opportunity to compete for a good cause.
The event is sponsored by Team Hope Houston to raise money to assist those affected with cancer at the local level.
“All the money raised stays here to help people in our community,” said team member Leigh Ann Howell.
The New Century Club of Houston sponsors a breast cancer support group that meets monthly, and many NCC members are also members of Team Hope but Howell said the clubs are not limited to only helping those with breast cancer.
“We want to help our folks with any kind of cancer,” Howell said.
The event draws men, women, youth and children who compete in age divisions or just participate to lend a helping hand.
Revati Patel is an annual competitor who enjoys the physical activity, but also the greater cause.
“I have participated in the Pink Ribbon 5K to help raise money for cancer patients and to support those who have battled cancer,” Patel said.
April Moore is a repeat runner who also mixes in competition and good health with community support for others.
“Having races like that help keep me motivated to run,” Moore said.”I am always trying to improve my times. Knowing that it is for such a good cause is icing on the cake.”
Community support from runners, walkers and other participants is key to successful fundrasing to assist those with cancer and team members appreciate everyone who contributes in any way to the run.
“We have many local groups that support our walk,” said Deanna Uhiren. “Rescue and police volunteers, the FFA Chapter from our high school, Buz Boyer and Coach (William) Cook are always willing to be our official time keeprs and our breast cancer support group ladies are always available to help. Our walk would not be a success without the many volunteers that are so willing to serve others in our community.”
Registration will be held from 7-7:30 a.m. Saturday morning between the Civic Center and Kid’s Park and the race will begin at 8 a.m. The course runs north on Starkville Road, east on Hwy. 8 and circles around at Martin Drive, returning to Starkville Road. Law enforcement and emergency responders will be on hand along the route to assist if needed.
To pre-register or for information, call 456-6040.